After School Matters’ summer session application is open, offering thousands of Chicago teens the opportunity to apply to hundreds of programs in the arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM. Programs begin June 26, run for six weeks, and will take place in-person at locations across the city like libraries, parks, After School Matters facilities, and community-based organizations as well as some select remote options. Teens interested in applying can visit afterschoolmatters.org.
It’s free to participate in After School Matters programs, and teens earn money for their participation. While the amount earned varies depending on age and level of expertise, this summer teens ages 16-20 will earn $15.40/hour in alignment with the City of Chicago’s One Summer Chicago (OSC).
“Chicago teens need opportunities to socialize with their peers and learn in safe spaces now more than ever with mental health issues on the rise,” said After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron. “After School Matters programs connect Chicago teens to mentors, resources, and peers from different backgrounds all across the city, building not only a stronger ASM community but also a stronger Chicago community.”
Summer programs provide teens an opportunity to learn from highly skilled instructor mentors and expand their subject-matter and critical thinking skills in problem-solving, social awareness, and collaboration with their peers through hands on projects.
A few of the programs offered this summer include:
Dance – Teens learn and perform a variety of dance styles in this program throughout the summer.
Design.Build.Grow.Eat. – Teens explore the connections between people and nature and learn about the process of farming, strengthening their knowledge of the environment and their ability to make a positive impact on it.
J-Def Peace Project – Teens learn from and work with a professional artist to create and display a large community mural. They address youth violence and loss and raise awareness of peace and conflict resolution through workshops and group discussions.
Skate for Success – Teens learn skateboarding techniques, develop brands, set skateboarding goals and personal goals, and motivate each other to succeed on and off their skateboards.
Sound Design and Editing – Teens learn skills in sound design and editing for television and film and will explore various career paths in the field.
All After School Matters programs are free and open to Chicago high school students who are at least 14 years old. As part of the application process, teens interview with program instructors to discuss their interests. Teens are encouraged to apply early, as program opportunities fill up quickly.
For questions about programs and applications, call 312-742-4182 or email applications@afterschoolmatters.org.
Para mas información en Español llámenos al 312-846-7106 o mándenos un correo electrónico al espanol@afterschoolmatters.org.
For more information, visit www.afterschoolmatters.org.
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